T5 light spectrum question

Discussion in 'T5 Aquarium Lighting' started by billyboy2, Nov 30, 2009.

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  1. billyboy2

    billyboy2 Coral Banded Shrimp

    Joined:
    Oct 31, 2009
    Messages:
    394
    Location:
    Winnipeg, Canada
    hey, I just purchased a HO T5 lighting system. It's got 4 bulbs, 2 are 10000K and 2 are 6700K. is this the best setup with T5 lighting or are these bulbs not in the proper spectrum for reef tank?? not sure what would be most ideal and the place i purchased from is not a LFS but a plant grow shop. any help thanks
     
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  3. GuitarMan89

    GuitarMan89 Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Mar 31, 2008
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    Location:
    Wilmington, DE
    Yea, the 6700ks are really meant for plant growth and the 10ks are full spectrum. What I would do is definitely get rid of the 6700K, it's very yellow and doesn't look very good IMO, although you should get good growth with it. The 10ks can also be yellow, but not as much and are generally white, although it does depend on the brand. I would do one of two things, if you want a bluer look, get rid of all of the bulbs and replace them with either 2 12K, 14K or 15K bulbs and 2 blue/actinic bulbs or keep the 2 10ks and add 2 blue/actinic bulbs. Or you could have 1 6700K and 3 blue bulbs etc.